Iloilo City, Philippines—The Department of Trade of Industry (DTI) officially opened the Western Visayas Regional Fiesta Haraya Celebration at the Iloilo Convention Center in a bid to highlight the rich heritage and creativity of the Western Visayas region.

Assistant Director Jo-Dann N. Darong of the Bureau of Competitive Development presented key aspects of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA) and updates on the Malikhaing Pinoy Program (MPP) during the morning sessions. He emphasized the pivotal role of creative industry stakeholders and highlighted how nurturing and supporting the creative sectors can drive both economic growth and cultural development in the Philippines.

Assistant Director Darong also recognized the vital role of creative cities in transforming local heritage into valuable creative assets. He further elaborated on the importance of regional and local competitiveness, stressing how local government units (LGUs) are key to strengthening local economies.

Meanwhile, DTI Region 6 Director Rachel Nufable recognized the commitment of the 133 participating LGUs. She emphasized the role of regional collaboration in enhancing competitiveness and supporting sustainable development in Western Visayas.

The morning session featured the Western Visayas Creativity Forum, which included discussions on the PCIDA, a dialogue among 2023 Lunsod Lunsad project beneficiaries, and a showcase of Iloilo City’s path to becoming a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

In the afternoon, the event hosted the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index Awards, which honored outstanding LGUs excelling in government efficiency, economic dynamism, infrastructure, resiliency, and innovation.

The whole-day celebration marked the start of a month-long Fiesta Haraya activities that will conclude with a Regional Fashion Week. Additional Fiesta Haraya events are scheduled in other regions nationwide throughout 2024.

Fiesta Haraya is part of DTI’s Malikhaing Pinoy Program (MPP), aiming to support regional creative industries through initiatives that promote local talent and encourage community involvement in the arts. ♦

Date of release: 12 November 2024

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